How to Choose the Right Size Dog Door for Your Pet

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard this story from fellow dog owners: someone orders a “good deal” on a dog door, installs it proudly, and then realizes their dog either refuses to use it or gets stuck halfway.

The problem usually isn’t the door itself, it’s that most of us guess the size instead of actually measuring.

Here’s the no-guesswork way to do it.

How to Choose the Right Size Dog Door for Your Pet

1. Measure Your Dog the Right Way

Grab a tape measure and note two things:

• Height: From the floor to the top of shoulders (with a little extra room).

• Width: From the widest point of your dog’s chest or hips.

Add about 2 inches to both measurements. That little buffer makes sure your dog moves comfortably without scraping or ducking too much.

2. Think About Future Growth

If you’ve got a puppy, don’t size for today. Size for adulthood. I once saw a friend install a “perfect puppy door” that lasted exactly six months before becoming useless. Save yourself the hassle and plan ahead.

3. Match the Door to Breed Shape

Weight alone isn’t enough. A stocky bulldog might weigh the same as a lanky greyhound, but their door needs are completely different. Always measure by height and width — breed shape makes a big difference.

4. Choose the Right Style of Dog Door

• Standard Flap Doors: Affordable, simple, and easy to install.

• Sliding Glass Inserts: Great for renters and people who don’t want to cut into walls.

• Electronic Dog Doors: Open only for your pet’s collar/key — perfect for keeping raccoons or strays out.

• Weatherproof/Insulated Doors: Best for cold or hot climates to keep energy bills in check.

I personally swear by electronic doors after finding a stray cat happily lounging in my kitchen one morning.

5. Consider Location and Lifestyle

• Backyard dogs: A simple flap may be fine.

• Apartment patios: Sliding glass inserts make more sense.

• Security-conscious households: Electronic doors keep things safe.

Think about how your dog uses your yard and how you want the door to impact your home.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Guessing instead of measuring.

• Ignoring breed body shape.

• Forgetting about puppy growth.

• Choosing the cheapest option without considering insulation or durability.

Closing Thoughts

A dog door should make life easier — not give your pup a daily obstacle course. When you measure properly and match the door to your dog’s body and your home setup, you get the sweet spot: independence for your dog, convenience for you, and no stuck retrievers.

👉 Ready to find the perfect fit? Browse our selection of dog doors designed for every size and lifestyle.

FAQs About Dog Door Sizing

1. What size dog door does a Labrador need?
Most Labradors do well with a large or extra-large dog door around 10–12 inches wide and 15–20 inches tall, but measuring your dog is always best.

2. Can a dog door be too big?
Yes. Oversized doors can let in drafts, bugs, and even unwanted animals. Always choose the smallest size that comfortably fits your pet.

3. Should puppies use dog doors?
Yes, but size it for their adult body and supervise early use so they build good habits and confidence.